For weeks I had been dreading this weekend.  As I didn't go abroad for my friends hen weekend, I felt that I had to show my face on her second hen night which was held locally.  As I live in a seaside resort where its income comes mainly from hen and stag parties, I really wasn't looking forward to it - it's not my scene.  Whilst I have held parties in my home, attended social gatherings at other peoples homes and also been out for meal etc where alcohol was at the core - this I felt was something else and I had worked myself up into a panic.  After all hen parties are renouned for the hen's getting drunk!

I agreed to go but set out my plan beforehand, I told the girls that I would need to leave early as I had to drive my husband somewhere later on (which was true) and I allowed my daughter to organise a sleepover. 

I knew after around 3 hours the hens would be well on the way to being drunk and my departure wouldn't be a problem anyway, so the day was easy really.  I drank bottled water with a straw so I had something in my hand and I blended in with the crowd!  The girls know I don't drink but it was the surroundings and the situation that I feared - but my fears were not necessary as setting out my "stall" early on, planning my day and believing in myself, I managed to enjoy the day with my friends. 

Today I am sober whilst the other hens are dying with a hangover and are complaining of bruised arms and legs - no doubt from falling over!!!

So I realised not to allow my fears to rule my life.  Planning, foresight and strength is all we need to get through any situation. 

Much love my DS friends.  xxxx